Dann found guilty on ethics charges

Former Attorney General Marc Dann was found guilty today on two ethics counts — providing improper compensation and filing false financial disclosure statements.

He entered an "Alford plea," meaning he admits there is sufficient evidence to convict him of the charges, but avoids having to plead guilty.

He was fined $500 for each count and is required to serve 500 hours of community service.

After his conviction in Franklin County Municipal Court, Dann, a Democrat from Liberty, told reporters that he is innocent, but added that he took full responsibility for his mistakes.

Dann said he was going to the Ohio Supreme Court’s disciplinary counsel today to inform them of his pleas.

Dann said he hoped to keep his law license because the convictions didn’t involve theft in office and he didn’t directly profit from the crimes.

Dann resigned as attorney general on May 14, 2008, accused of running an unprofessional office filled with cronyism and inappropriate sexual behavior.

Three of his top managers — and Dann’s estranged wife — have also pleaded guilty to ethics charges.

For the complete story, read Saturday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com